The best walks and hikes around Ballycollin

Yes, there are many options for beginners. For a very gentle and short walk, the Mila's Lake loop from Poleglass is a great choice. It's a flat, 3.1 km path around a lake that takes less than an hour. In total, there are over 90 easy-rated walks in the area to choose from.

Definitely. The region offers several trails suitable for a family outing. For an easy walk with nice views that isn't too long, consider the View from Black Mountain loop from Mount Eagles. It's a 6.6 km loop with manageable ascents and rewarding scenery.

Many trails in the region are suitable for walking with a dog, but they should be kept on a lead, especially on Divis and Black Mountain where livestock graze. The paths through Massy's Estate are a popular choice for dog walkers, offering beautiful woodland scenery.

Most of the main trailheads, such as those for Divis and Black Mountain, have dedicated car parks. The Slieve Bloom Mountains area is also well-served with numerous small car parks at the start of various trails. However, these can fill up quickly on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.

There is a wide variety of trails to explore, with over 150 routes mapped on komoot. These range from short, easy strolls to more challenging moderate hikes across the hills and moorland.

The main trails, particularly the National Trust routes on Divis and Black Mountain, are generally well-signposted. However, some of the less-trafficked woodland paths, like those in Massy's Estate or Slievethoul, can have less frequent signage, so having a map or the komoot app is a good idea.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the summits and the mix of open moorland and accessible paths.

Yes, the majority of the popular routes in the area are circular, or 'loop' trails, which means you can start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. The Black Mountain Summit – Wooden Bridge Over Stream loop from Mount Eagles is a great example of a rewarding circular hike.

The weather can change quickly in the hills. It's essential to wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip. Dressing in layers is also wise, and a waterproof jacket is a must, even if the forecast looks clear. The terrain is often exposed, so a hat and sun cream are recommended on sunny days.

While the immediate Ballycollin and Black Mountain area is more known for its moorland and views, you can find waterfalls in the wider region. Clamp Hole Waterfall in County Laois is a highly-rated spot with lovely walks, though it is a considerable drive from the main Ballycollin trails.

The difficulty varies. You'll find a large number of easy walks, perfect for casual strolls. The majority of the popular hill walks are rated as moderate, involving some steady ascents but on clear paths. There are very few technically difficult hikes, making the area accessible to most fitness levels.

Accessing the main trailheads like Divis and Black Mountain via public transport can be challenging as they are located outside the city. It typically requires a bus journey followed by a significant walk to reach the start of the hike. Driving is generally the most convenient option.